Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume is a commune situated in the southeastern French department of Var, within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It is located approximately 40 km (25 mi) east of Aix-en-Provence at the base of the Sainte-Baume mountains.
The town is notable for its basilica, which is dedicated to Mary Magdalene. The name "Sainte-Baume" derives from the Provençal words for "holy cave," reflecting the geographical and religious significance of the area's caves.